FAQ

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive regarding the OYSA program and the audition process. (click for information)

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Program FAQ

Auditions FAQ

What is a full orchestra?

A full orchestra is a musical ensemble that includes instruments from all four common instrument families: string, woodwind, brass and percussion. The Olathe Youth Symphony Association is made up of two full orchestras (Philharmonic and Symphony), and one strings-only group (Prelude Strings).

When are rehearsals?

Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings, 6-8pm, from September to mid-April, except for certain holidays. Prelude Strings rehearsals run January to mid-April from 6-7:30pm.

Where are rehearsals located?

Rehearsals take place at Olathe South High School, 1640 W. 151st St, Olathe, KS 66062.

When are concerts held?

Concerts are held at Olathe South High School, 1640 W. 151st St, Olathe, KS 66062.

What is the financial commitment?

$180 per concert season for Philharmonic and Symphony members.

Are there other commitments?

No, but parents who volunteer for such things as stage set-up and tear down, stage decorating crew, and music library maintenance are not only greatly appreciated but critical to the success of our organization.

Can students participate in OYSA but not participate in his or her school band or orchestra program?

No. The Olathe Youth Symphony Association is designed to enhance, not replace their school instrumental music programs. Each student selected for membership in the OYSA program must sign an agreement committing to participation in his or her school music program on the respective instrument they play in the OYSA. If a school music program is not available where the student attends, the student must be enrolled in weekly private lessons with a well-qualified instructor.

Do students need to have a private instructor to participate?

No. Private study is not required in order to participate, but it is strongly encouraged. Statistically, students who study privately are more successful performing the challenging music required by OYSA members.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. If there is a financial need please e-mail us at olatheyouthsymphony@gmail.com explaining your situation. Payment plans are also available upon request. Requests must be made by July 1st.

Who is eligible to audition?

Talented musicians in grades 6 through 12 residing within the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan Area and surrounding region. College students are not eligible. Every student must audition each year regardless of previous OYSA participation. Placement is competitive and based on audition score. Students will be judged on tone, intonation, rhythm, technique, musical interpretation and scale proficiency.

My child has never auditioned. Is it difficult to get accepted?

As long as the audition shows a high level of preparation and attention to the appropriateness of their solo, they will be successful. Please ask your school band or orchestra director for help.

When and where are auditions?

Auditions are on May 7th & 8th, 2019. All auditions take place at Olathe South High School, 1640 E. 151st St, Olathe, KS 66062.

When will I know my audition date and time?

Instantly! You will have access to select your own audition date and time, upon completing the audition application.

How long is each audition?

Each audition is approximately 5 minutes in length.

What if I need to request a different time?

You will have access to change your own audition date/time through SignUpGenius.

What are the performance requirements for the audition?

Scales: Scale requirements are different for every instrument. Each instrument is assigned two 1-2 octave scales depending on each student’s current experience level. Click here to view the requirements for your instrument. PERCUSSION REQUIREMENTS are also available on this link.

Solo: Perform a solo (1-3 minutes) of your choice that demonstrates your most advanced technical and musical ability on your instrument. Make sure your school’s band or orchestra director helps you choose appropriate music for this type of audition. The solo will be unaccompanied and DOES NOT need to be memorized.

Scales: Play two scales of your choice (one major and one minor) that demonstrates your experience and most advanced technical ability on your instrument. Students must play 2-3 octave scales at a slow to moderate tempo. All scales must be memorized. No vibrato please!

Solo: Perform a solo excerpt (2-3 minutes) of your choice that demonstrates your most advanced technical and musical ability on your instrument. The solo will be unaccompanied and DOES NOT need to be memorized.
Sight-Reading: Only students chosen to audition for a leadership position by the Music Director will be asked to sight-read.

SYMPHONY PERCUSSION ONLY

Solos: Perform two solos (2-3 minutes each) that demonstrate technical and musical ability. One solo must be on a mallet instrument and the other on either snare or timpani.

Sight-Reading: Rhythmic sight-reading on snare drum.

Please Note: The Youth Symphony will provide the following audition instruments: timpani, xylophone, marimba, snare drum. Students are required to bring their own sticks and mallets to the audition.